Completes dream for one-of-a-kind, 18-hole course for wounded and disabled veterans
LAKEWOOD, Wash., May 25, 2016 – The nation’s only golf course designed specifically for the rehabilitation of wounded and disabled veterans officially doubles in size next week with the opening of the new “Nicklaus Nine” on June 4 at American Lake Veterans Golf Course in Lakewood, Wash. The course’s 200-plus volunteers will have the first opportunity to play the new nine holes during their annual volunteer appreciation tournament. The much anticipated expansion will be open for others to play beginning June 5.
The course, while located on the grounds of the Veterans Administration Hospital, operates without any federal funding or paid employees. It is managed 100 percent by volunteers. So fittingly, the volunteers will get the first swings on the course.
“We are all exceptionally excited about the opening of the Nicklaus Nine,” says Bruce McKenty, course manager. “It has been a long time coming and our veterans deserve a first class golf course for all the sacrifices they have made for our country.”
The entirely ADA-accessible course was designed pro bono by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, who has visited a number of times to personally oversee the construction.
The June 4 event will include a ceremonial ribbon cutting by Joanne Hatner. Hatner’s father was the director of the VA Hospital during the first ribbon cutting ceremony for the course in 1957, an event she herself attended. Following the ribbon cutting, Ken Still- former PGA Tour professional and fellow 1969 U.S. Ryder Cup Team member with Jack Nicklaus- will hit the first drive off the new nine as Nicklaus’ representative.
The course is open to all veterans, their families and guests. This includes active duty, as well as retired military, national guard and reserve members. The only non-veterans allowed to play are employees of the Veteran’s Administration. Anyone can also play as a guest of someone who qualifies. To check eligibility and identification requirements, call (253) 589-1998 or stop by the course located at 9600 Veterans Drive S.W., Lakewood, Wash. For more information about the course, visit www.veterangolf.org.
Contact:
